Introduction
Chronic pain can have a significant impact on life and make the simplest daily activities a challenge. While painkillers can help in the short term, many people are looking for long-term, holistic solutions without side effects. Traditional Chinese Medicine offers various approaches to relieve chronic pain and improve quality of life.
TCM’s view of chronic pain
In TCM, pain is often seen as the result of energy blockages (Qi stagnation) or imbalances in the body. Factors such as emotions, diet and lifestyle can influence the balance of yin and yang and lead to discomfort.
TCM methods for treating pain
- Acupuncture
- Akupuncture: Can promote the release of endorphins, relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Application: Targeted needling at specific points to harmonize the energy flow.
- Moxibustion
- Effect: Heat therapy with dried mugwort herb to stimulate acupuncture points.
- Application: Can be particularly helpful for cold-related pain.
- Herbal therapy
- Effect: Individually tailored herbal mixtures can relieve pain and restore balance.
- Application: As tea, decoction or in capsule form.
- Tuina massage
- Effect: Relieves muscular tension and promotes blood circulation.
- Application: Special massage technique along the meridians.
Advantages of TCM for chronic pain
- Holistic approach: Consideration of body, mind and soul as a unit.
- Individualized treatment: Therapy is tailored to the specific needs of the patient.
- Low side effects: Natural methods with a low risk of unwanted effects.
Case studies
A 45-year-old female patient with chronic back pain was looking for alternative treatment methods. After regular acupuncture sessions and taking an individually tailored herbal mixture, she reported a significant reduction in pain and improved mobility.
Scientific perspective
Studies have shown that acupuncture and other TCM methods can be effective in the treatment of chronic pain. However, it is important to seek treatment from qualified professionals and to consider TCM as a complement to conventional medicine.
Since 2022, the International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems (ICD = International Classification of Diseases) also includes diagnoses from traditional Chinese medicine.
Conclusion
Traditional Chinese Medicine offers a wide range of options for treating chronic pain holistically. If you are looking for natural and sustainable solutions, TCM could be a valuable path for you. Consult an experienced TCM practitioner to create a personalized treatment plan.
